The Rolex Oysterdate is an admittedly utilitarian watch. Refined and free from excess like a lot of other Rolex models, it is a tool watch in its purest form. Launched as the ref. 6094 in Rolex’s busiest year, 1953, it featured the manual-wind cal. 1215. This was eventually upgraded to the cal. 1225 that powered the reference we have here, the ref. 6694 that debuted in the early 1960s. Svelte by today’s proportions, the Oysterdate was sold as an entry-level version of the Datejust, with its 2mm smaller 34mm case and manual movement allowing its retail price to be that bit more palatable. This more accessible price worked in enabling groups to purchase the watch, just like various armed forces, companies and so on. A no-frills watch with useful functionality at an affordable price, it is no surprise that the ref. 6694 and other vintage Oysterdate references are such a unique and interesting part of Rolex collecting.

Watch is in good overall condition. Case shows moderate signs of wear, with some scratches and dings visible along the bezel. Mid-case has some wear, with scratches visible along the surface. The original dial is in good overall condition. There is oxidation and aging on the dial, with discolored luminous, a few scratches (Above the word Precision) as well as oxidation on the indexes. Watch comes on a later solid link oyster bracelet with 13 links total, 3 of which are removable. The bracelet has light stretch and fits a 7 3/4" wrist.

Combining the ref. 6694's no-frills aesthetic with a uniquely-aged off-white dial, this example is a wonderful example of how vintage Oysterdates have developed over the years.